Downloading and then printing digital art, clipart or activity pages seems pretty straightforward. It is a pretty simple process, BUT there are some factors to be aware of. Printable art can fall into several different categories, but what you should know before purchasing any of it, holds true for each category.
Here are the Top 10 Things to know before you purchase printable art.
1. Print Quality & Resolution
Be aware of what resolution the art is in. Resolution is measured in Dots per Inch, or D.P.I. .
While considered a high-resolution, (300 DPI) should be the minimum resolution of the files you purchase, to ensure clear, non pixelated images.
Common formats that the files you purchase should be in any, if not all, of the following formats, PDF, PNG, JPG. Here’s a brief breakdown of those formats.
PDF, is common for text documents. This is usually for text downloads, or placements in other multi page documents.
PNG is a common graphic format. If prepared properly, a PNG image will have a transparent background. This is useful for using the image in a collage, or article, such as a blog or newsletter. (Insert example here ?). PNGs also tend to have a higher resolution than JPGs, and make for better graphics in printing situations. See the example below.
In the example above, on the left, a JPG graphic was inserted into a text document. Notice how a white block appears behind the text, and the text runs along the edges of that “block”.
The example on the right shows a PNG graphic inserted instead. Notice how the text runs along the shape of the graphic, due to it’s transparent background.
JPGs usually have a lower resolution, 72 dpi is most common. While not usually good for printing purposes, ( they can be pixelated, or jaggy), JPGs are great for online usage, such as online newsletters, blogs and websites. Due to their small file size, they’ll keep your documents at a smaller size, making processing them quicker and easier.
One last thing… take note of the physical dimensions of the files you purchase, It’s usually always safe to reduce the size of the graphic for your needs. The reverse is not always true. If you want to increase the size of your purchased art, you could run into clarity problems, such as pixelation. (See the example below).
The image on the left is fine. The image on the right is pixelated.
2. Color Mode
There are two basic color modes in the digital art world. RGB and CMYK…. While it may be same image, the color shift in each mode could be startling… (show example here, include “as shown on an electronic device only”)….
RGB stands for Red, Green and Blue, and is the mode used for computers, mobile phones, etc.
CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black. This is what’s used in the non electronic printing world, such as newspapers, magazines, and yes, home printers. (See the example below, there is small shift in the colors, particularly the bright colors).
3. Ease of Printing at Home or Professionally
The beauty of Printable Art, whether it’s wall art, stickers, clipart or decals, is that you don’t have to wait for it to be shipped to you. Once you purchase the art, you should be able to download the files almost immediately. You can then print the files at home on your own printer, or if you prefer, take them to a local professional printer, or even a local store, such as a CVS or Staples, that offers in store printing services.
4. Instant Download Explained
Printable files can be made available in a variety of ways, depending on where you get them from. Some places will have a download link that leads right to the files for you to download. Sites that have larger files, or a bundle of files for you to download, may provide a like to a site like DropBox or Google, where the larger files are stored. Either way is quick and easy.
5. Licensing & Usage Rights
This may sound odd, but be aware of the RIGHTS that you purchased. This may be in fine print, but you may not be allowed to do whatever you want with the files once you bought them. Some sellers may only grant personal use, meaning just for you, and not for you to sell or resell. Think home projects, shirts for family trips, etc. An extra fee may be required for a commercial license if you want the graphics to be used on products you intend to resell, especially on a mass market level.
6. Value for Money
What are you getting for the money you spend ?
- Are there. multiple sizes of the design available ?
- Does the come in multiple sizes ?
- Does the design meet your needs ?
- Does more than one design come with your purchase ?
7. Support & Troubleshooting
Does the seller provide support if you run into a problem or have questions about the design ?
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